Palace make bitter point

following a long punt forward by keeper Wayne Hennessey.

Christian Benteke had started the last two games on the bench after a seven-week absence with a knee injury but was restored to the Eagles’ starting line-up after his second-half performance in Saturday’s 2-1 win against Stoke.

The striker rose to meet Hennessey’s clearance before latching on to the loose ball and sending a shot close to Brighton keeper Ryan, who reacted superbly to keep out Zaha’s follow-up. Brighton responded when Lewis Dunk met Pascal Gross’s corner and directed a header straight at Hennessey midway through the half, with Jose Izquierdo drawing a save from the keeper minutes later.

Hughton’s side had grown into the game but they failed to turn dominant possession into goals.

There were few signs the match would open up after the break as nerves appeared to take hold of both sides. While Hughton’s side once again took control in midfield, the Palace defence stood firm. Anthony Knockaert forced Hennessey into action once again with a free-kick that the keeper did well to tip the ball over the bar. But neither side could conjure up the quality to take all three points.

BRIGHTON (4-4-2): Booked: CRYSTAL PALACE (4-4-2): NEXT UP: Referee: NEXT UP: